Clear a Clogged Downspout
Gutters and downspouts play an essential role in protecting the exterior of a house by allowing water to drain from the roof onto the ground. When they become clogged with leaves, twigs, branches and other dirt and debris, water doesn't drain properly and this will eventually cause water damage if the problem is not taken care of. Gutters and downspouts need to be cleaned once or twice a year and more if the house is surrounded by trees. If you notice that water is not draining from the downspout when it rains, this indicates that the gutters are full of debris or the downspout is clogged.
Instructions
1. Spray the downspout with a garden hose or pressure washer. A pressure washer is the quickest way to clear a downspout, however, it is not worth renting just for a clogged downspout problem. The cost of renting a pressure washer averages around $50 for half a day in 2010 prices. If you are using a pressure washer to clean all the gutters or for other cleaning, then use it on the downspout as well. Insert the tip into the top of the downspout and spray for five minutes. The other option is to use a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle. If the downspout remains clogged after five minutes, it is time to try a different method.
2. Tap along the downspout to locate the clog. The downspout will emit a high-pitched sound that slightly resonates. When you reach the clog, the sound will be lower in pitch and sound more like a thud. Once you locate the clog, keep tapping and this may dislodge whatever is clogging the spout. If the clog breaks free, water will gush out at the bottom. Shoot water into the top of the downspout and see if it freely flows through to the bottom.
3. Insert a plumber's snake into the top of the downspout. Rotate the snake as you push it downwards toward the bottom of the downspout. Once it reaches the clog, rotate it back and forth and attempt to loosen the clog. Leave the snake in place and spray water into the top of the downspout to see if it flows freely. Keep manipulating the snake until the clog is clear.
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